Ethereum Classic (ETC) remains a compelling blockchain for users who value decentralization, immutability, and proof-of-work consensus. If you’ve mined or received ETC but can’t see your balance in MetaMask, the issue is likely simple: your wallet isn’t connected to the Ethereum Classic network. By default, MetaMask only displays assets on the Ethereum (ETH) network. To view and manage ETC, you must manually add the ETC network via a custom RPC configuration.
This guide walks you through how to connect MetaMask to Ethereum Classic, view your ETC balance, interact with ETC-based dApps, and safely manage tokens—all while maintaining full control of your private keys.
What Is Ethereum Classic?
Ethereum Classic emerged in 2016 as a result of a hard fork following the infamous DAO hack. When $50 million in investor funds were drained due to a smart contract vulnerability, the Ethereum community faced a critical decision: reverse the transactions via a hard fork or preserve blockchain immutability.
While most of the community—including Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin—opted for the fork (leading to today’s Ethereum), a minority believed in preserving the original chain’s integrity. That original, unaltered chain became Ethereum Classic (ETC).
Unlike modern Ethereum, which transitioned to proof-of-stake (PoS), Ethereum Classic remains a proof-of-work (PoW) blockchain. It upholds core principles like trustlessness and censorship resistance, making it attractive to developers and miners who oppose centralized intervention.
Key Features of Ethereum Classic
- Max Supply Cap: 210,700,000 ETC
- Consensus Mechanism: Proof-of-Work (PoW)
- Block Reward Reduction: Decreases by 20% every 5 million blocks
- Smart Contract Support: Fully compatible with EVM (Ethereum Virtual Machine)
- Decentralized Applications (dApps): Hosts DeFi platforms, NFTs, and more
Because ETC uses the EVM, it’s fully compatible with tools like MetaMask—making integration straightforward.
Why Add Ethereum Classic to MetaMask?
MetaMask is more than just an Ethereum wallet—it’s a gateway to the broader EVM ecosystem. You can use it across multiple blockchains that support Ethereum-compatible smart contracts. Adding ETC to MetaMask allows you to:
- View and manage your ETC balance
- Send and receive ETC securely
- Interact with ETC-based dApps like Hebeswap and Phoenix
- Explore native NFTs such as ETC Punks
- Stake or trade tokens within DeFi protocols on the ETC network
👉 Discover how easy it is to expand your crypto access across EVM chains with the right tools.
How to Connect MetaMask to Ethereum Classic Network
Follow these steps to add the Ethereum Classic mainnet to your MetaMask wallet. The process is identical whether you're using the browser extension or mobile app.
Step 1: Open MetaMask Settings
- Launch MetaMask and unlock your wallet.
- Click the network dropdown at the top (e.g., "Ethereum Mainnet").
- Select "Add Network" → "Add a Network Manually".
On mobile: Tap your profile icon → Settings → Networks → Add Network.
Step 2: Enter Ethereum Classic Network Details
Fill in the following RPC configuration:
- Network Name: Ethereum Classic
- New RPC URL:
https://www.ethercluster.com/etc - Chain ID:
61 - Currency Symbol:
ETC - Block Explorer URL (optional):
https://blockscout.com/etc/mainnet/
💡 The RPC URL is a node endpoint that connects MetaMask to the ETC blockchain. Chain ID ensures transaction compatibility.
Step 3: Save and Switch Networks
Click "Save". MetaMask will automatically switch to the Ethereum Classic network. Your ETH balance will disappear from view—but don’t worry. That’s expected. You’re now on a different blockchain.
Return to your wallet dashboard. If your ETC balance doesn’t appear immediately, wait a few moments or refresh the page.
You can toggle between Ethereum Mainnet and Ethereum Classic anytime using the network selector.
Can I Use the Same Address for ETH and ETC?
Yes! Both Ethereum and Ethereum Classic use the same address format (starting with 0x). Your MetaMask address works on both chains without needing to create a new wallet.
However, always double-check which network you're on before sending funds. Sending ETC over the ETH network—or vice versa—can result in permanent loss of assets.
👉 Stay safe and avoid costly mistakes when managing multi-chain wallets.
Managing Tokens on Ethereum Classic
Beyond ETC, the network supports various tokens and NFTs. To view them in MetaMask:
Import Custom Tokens
- While connected to the Ethereum Classic network, click "Add Token".
- Switch to "Custom Token" tab.
- Paste the token’s contract address (find this on BlockScout).
- Enter token name, symbol, and decimals (usually auto-filled).
- Click "Next" → "Add Token".
Now you’ll see your token balance under Assets.
⚠️ Never send tokens to your address unless you’ve confirmed the correct network is selected.
DApps and Use Cases on Ethereum Classic
Though smaller than Ethereum, ETC hosts functional decentralized applications:
- Hebeswap: A decentralized exchange (DEX) for swapping ETC and tokens
- Phoenix Protocol: DeFi lending and staking platform
- ETC Punks: On-chain NFT collection inspired by CryptoPunks
These dApps operate similarly to their ETH counterparts but benefit from lower centralization risks due to ETC’s PoW model.
Developers can deploy any EVM-compatible dApp on ETC with minimal changes—making it a viable alternative for censorship-resistant projects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I lose my funds if I switch networks?
No. Your funds remain secure on their respective blockchains. Switching networks only changes which chain MetaMask interacts with. Just ensure you send assets on the correct network.
Why isn’t my ETC balance showing up?
First, verify that:
- You’re connected to the Ethereum Classic network
- The transaction has been confirmed on-chain (check via BlockScout)
- You entered the correct RPC settings
If all are correct, try re-adding the network or refreshing MetaMask.
Is Ethereum Classic safe to use with MetaMask?
Yes. Since ETC is EVM-compatible and uses standard cryptographic protocols, it's as secure as other major EVM chains when used correctly.
Do I need a new wallet for ETC?
No. You can use your existing MetaMask address for both ETH and ETC. Only the active network determines which assets are visible.
What happens if I send ETC to an ETH address?
Since both chains share addresses, sending ETC to your ETH address on the ETC network is safe—as long as you're transacting on the Ethereum Classic chain. But sending via the wrong RPC (e.g., using ETH network settings) could lead to irreversible loss.
Can I connect hardware wallets like Ledger or Trezor?
Yes. You can link Ledger or Trezor devices to MetaMask and access them on the ETC network once configured properly.
Final Thoughts
Connecting MetaMask to Ethereum Classic unlocks access to a resilient, community-driven blockchain rooted in decentralization and immutability. Whether you're a miner, investor, or DeFi explorer, integrating ETC into your wallet is simple and empowering.
With just a few clicks, you can manage ETC balances, explore native dApps, and participate in a growing ecosystem—all while maintaining full custody of your assets.
👉 Take control of your multi-chain journey with tools that make blockchain access seamless and secure.
Core Keywords: Ethereum Classic, MetaMask, add ETC to MetaMask, connect MetaMask to ETC, ETC network, EVM blockchain, proof-of-work, custom RPC